DSOY contestants — Staff Sgt. Facio

Outside the Wire will feature profiles (in alphabetical order) of the six Drill Sergeant of the Year contenders this week. The competitors, which include four active-duty soldiers and two reservists, will be evaluated as they tackle 50 physically and emotionally challenging events. The winners will be announced Friday.

Staff Sgt. Benjamin Facio is Fort Leonard Wood’s Drill Sergeant of the Year. The California native joined the Army in 2004 as a military policeman.

“It definitely is an honor to be at this level competing with these drill sergeants – the best of the best from all the installations,” said Facio, whose demeanor is confident but not cocky.

The Afghanistan veteran said modules, drilling ceremonies and warrior tasks are his strong suits. He also has spent countless hours preparing to stand before the sergents major board. His weak link is in weaponry, said Facio, who hopes to bump his qualification from sharp shooter to expert next time around.

The former patrol supervisor has served at Fort Campbell, Ken., and Fort Irwin, Calif.

About Author

A Navy brat who spent eight years in the Marines (two years aboard the carrier Independence). Worked in journalism in Eastern North Carolina through the latter part of the 90s, then became editor of Air Force Times in 2000. Stayed there five years, then took a break to finish some school. Now back in the game with Navy Times.